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Indian gaurs frequent Kodaikanal town

Madurai: Indian gaurs roaming in Kodaikanal town has become frequent in the recent past. The animals pose a threat to both residents and tourists in the hills. Tourists often are at the receiving end by their presence as they approach the animals without realizing the danger. Local people say that the animals stray into the town in search of water and food, particularly during summer.



V S Veerapathiran, a resident of Kodaikanal, said that Indian gaurs roaming in the town have become a common sight. While they are mostly found in Naidupuram and Golf Course area, they also often stray into the main roads and around the lake. "They have tasted the food we consume, which contains salt. Since the animals like the taste of salt, they make frequent visits to the town. Animals looking for leftover food in waste bins has become a common sight," he said.

A forest official said that it is extreme danger to approach Indian gaurs, whether it is found on the road or in the bushes. There have been quite a few incidents of the animals attacking local people as well as tourists in the past. Many tourists do not realize the danger while approaching the animals with the intension of feeding them. They can even weigh around one tonne and kill a human being in just one knock.

Awareness measures are being taken to keep tourists safe. During summer, availability of water is also ensured inside the forest to prevent them from straying outside, he said.

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